Former NFL QB calls Matthew Stafford trade a “conversation” worth having for Rams
Since winning the Super Bowl, Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams have had their fans braced for catastrophe or given it to them. Before the Puka Nacua revelation last September, many were braced for a repeat of the team's 5-12 season. This year, after starting 0-2 and facing similar injury woes from 2022, one NFL analyst is bringing up a topic from the team's 5-12 season.
On Thursday's edition of "Get Up," NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky claimed there could be a conversation about moving on from Stafford.
[04:31] "The internal information with their injuries is the biggest part, and if they come away from those injuries to their offensive line, specifically the interior and Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp [saying] in late October, 'we'll be whole,' then I think it has to be at least a conversation in their front office with the Los Angeles Rams," Orlovsky said.
According to ESPN, Puka Nacua could miss between 5-7 weeks. Cooper Kupp, meanwhile, is dealing with a high ankle sprain that could result in at least a four-week stay on the Injured Reserve. At the time of writing, he is listed as doubtful for the team's showdown against the San Francisco 49ers.
Potential mid-season landing spots for Matthew Stafford
New York Giants
The New York Giants are 0-2 and have been placing pressure on Daniel Jones this season. With the team staring at a 0-3 start, trading for Stafford in late October would kickstart the rebuild at quarterback. Stafford would get half of the season to tryout with Malik Nabers to see if he fits with Brian Daboll. Then, the Giants could use him as a bridge quarterback while a premium rookie sits in 2025.
Carolina Panthers
With Bryce Young potentially on life support, the Panthers might be interested in turning the page sooner rather than later. In a trade that sends Matthew Stafford to Carolina in exchange for Young, the Rams would also see if Young is salvageable. With Jimmy Garoppolo already on the roster, they have an option to buy time for Young to learn the offense.
Minnesota Vikings
Sam Darnold is flying high and leading the division at 2-0. However, it is still early in the season. If Darnold falls back into his old New York Jets-esque ways, Stafford could get the rest of the season to finish out. With J.J. McCarthy unable to play a single snap this year, Matthew Stafford could be McCarthy's mentor next season.
If any of the above quotes are used, credit "Get Up" and H/T Sportskeeda.